U.S. Army PFC Andrew Perez

July 8, 2011 - It was a beautiful summer day - and a perfect day to welcome home a hero. US Army PFC (Private First Class) Andrew Perez arrived at O'Hare to find a limo waiting for him. The limo took him to the Vernon Hills Police Department, where he was then given a police escort to his home. On the way, they made a brief stop at the Countryside Fire Protection District's station on Deerpath Drive, which was at the ready with a giant American flag and all the fire department's equipment. The Lincolnshire Riverwoods FPD was also in attendance for this special occasion.

Then, it was on to Andrew's home on Westmoreland Drive, where his mother, Margie, finally got to put her arms around him. His father and sister were also quite happy to see him. The PD and the Village presented Andrew with a proclamation, stating that July 8th was now PFC Andrew Perez Day. He also received a gift card for dinner at Olive Garden and shopping at Westfield Hawthorn.

Andrew joined the Army in 2010 and was most recently stationed at Fort Stuart after a 6-month stint in Al Asad. While there, he helped train Iraqi troops.

Although Andrew is only home for a short stay, we were very proud to be able to welcome him home in style!